Westermo updates WeConfig for monitoring

December 4, 2014 - Westermo updates WeConfig Network Configuration Management software for monitoring industrial routers, switches and Ethernet line extenders. WeConfig was first launched in June 2014 to simplify initial configuration, backup and firmware upgrades to Westermo devices. This release of version 1.1 adds a number of important benefits for network engineers.

A major step for WeConfig is that it can now be used as a simple monitoring and diagnostics tool in addition to is configuration capabilities. Westermo has comprehensive network resilience technology including FRNT, RSTP, OPSF, LACP, RIP and VRRP within WeOS which ensure a network can remain fully functional even in the event of media failure. To achieve resilience WeOS devices automatically reconfigure themselves so the processes running on the network are unaffected. What this means however is that the user may be unaware that a failure has occurred. WeConfig can now graphically display a failed link is as well as record the time of the event.

Additionally to an SNMP trap logging function statistical data stored in WeOS devices can now also be easily displayed on screen to assist with any resulting problem diagnosis. Information including port link status, data-rate, bytes, errors, broadcast, multicast and unicast counters are displayed in a simple tabular format.

Project files have also been introduced meaning that an engineer can maintain a number of different networks and store all the associated backup files and topology information. These files can be used to allow a fast and easy replacement and reconfiguration of a damaged switch in the field. A new device can be installed in the network and will automatically be discovered by WeConfig. The configuration file of the old unit can simply be restored from the project file and the network is repaired.

Another helpful tool to assist the network engineer is a scheduler to remind him to take a periodic backup of configuration files. This way the engineer can be confident he has a reliable and ready set of recovery data in the event of a network failure.

Westermo provides a full range of industrial data communications solutions for demanding applications in the transport, water and energy markets among others. For more than 35 years Westermo has been at the forefront of technological development and often pushed the limits of what is technically possible. In order to provide the best possible support, we have local presence in more than 35 countries through our authorized distributors and own offices. Since 2008 Westermo has been part of the Beijer Electronics Group, a fast growing technology company with extensive experience of industrial automation, developing and marketing competitive products and solutions with focus on the user.